Six Dog Laws You Might Not Know About

Many people get a dog without doing their research. They simply choose the first cute puppy they see. There are actually several dog laws that owners should be aware of before purchasing their pet. There are six main dog laws you might not know about. Some are for a dog’s protection, while others protect people from a difficult dog.

The Dog Bite Law

A dog bite can cause serious damage, especially if it is done to children. Both owners and non-owners should be aware of the dog bite law so they know what to expect should the situation occur. While not every state holds the same laws, many share similar views on dog bites. If a dog bites a person, the owner is held responsible.

This is only true though if the person who got bit did not provoke the dog in any way. People who play roughly with a dog, entice a dog to attack, or are otherwise acting aggressive toward the animal, are at fault. If the dog bites someone who is simply walking by, standing closely, or otherwise acting in a typical manner, then the owner is the one responsible for the dog’s actions.

Some states do not follow this law, and instead use the one-bite rule. This law states that if a dog bites a person for the first time, without prior knowledge of the dog’s aggression, then the owner is not responsible. If the dog makes an attempt to bite someone, the owner knows about it, and the dog does bite someone later down the line, then the owner is considered at fault.

The Dog Barking Law

Everyone knows that dogs bark. Excessive barking is not allowed though. If a dog barks for more than 20 minutes in a row, a complaint may be filed. While some states do not have a specific dog barking law, many do have a noise ordinance. No unreasonable noise, whether from dogs or otherwise, can occur after a certain time at night, usually 10 or 11 pm. Several states do have an excessive barking law, which allows neighbors to file a complaint to the city council. A hearing then takes place that determines what needs to be done.

A complaint of a noisy dog may also be filed with animal control services. An owner with a dog that habitually disturbs the neighborhood by barking or howling may be in a violation of the Public Nuisance Ordinance.

The Dog In Car Law

Countless people bring their dogs in the car, unaware of the newer laws that have been developed. There are two main laws regarding dogs in cars. The first dog in car law is in regards to keeping a dog in a hot vehicle. Many states now have rules regarding this, stating people will get ticketed if they leave their animals in a car, and will face fines. There are a few exceptions to this law. If the weather is mild, a dog should be fine inside the vehicle for a short time. It is when the weather is too hot, or too cold, that it is not allowed. The window must also be cracked for ventilation, and the animal should have access to food and water. A police officer that sees a dog locked inside a vehicle has the right to break the window and get the dog free.

The second law regarding dogs in cars is for transport. Many people simply let their dogs wander around the vehicle while they drive. They are not contained in any way. Some states have no rules against this, but do offer recommendations for safer driving, including using a safety harness, or only allowing dogs to ride in the back seat. Other states do have laws regarding pet travel. One in particular is not allowing the dog to ride in a truck without being secured in a crate or cage. An animal may not ride unsecured in a truck bed. Other locations do not allow you to drive with a dog in your lap. He must instead be in a seat. These laws help keep the roads safe and prevents driver distractions.

The Service Dog In Training Law

Many people believe that because they are training their dogs to become service animals, they are already considered as such. They will take the dogs with them inside stores and in other local places. This is actually not allowed. Current service dog in training laws state that the animal is not yet considered a service dog, and is not to be treated as such to the public. Training must be completed first. A few states will accept a dog in training, but it is not usually done. Regular service dogs and dogs in training do need to be on a leash or otherwise harnessed while they are inside many public places.

The Federal Service Dog Law

The federal service dog laws state that no discrimination can be made to someone with a disability. If you have a service dog, you or your dog cannot be denied entry into a public facility or location. The facility must accommodate you, and modify their policies to allow dogs in the vicinity.

Store employees or business workers may ask if the dog is a service dog, but the dog’s owner does not have to provide identification. No special tags or IDs are required for a disabled person to bring their service dog inside with them.

The Dog Abandonment Law

There are dog abandonment laws that allow a dog to be deemed abandoned if he or she is not picked up within a certain time. This applies to a kennel, boarding facility, and even the veterinarian’s office. For example, if a dog is not picked up from a kennel within 14 days of the agreed upon pick-up date, then the kennel may attempt to find new owners for the dog.

Dogs that are found roaming the streets or left in other public places are also considered abandoned. They will be taken to a veterinarian for treatment, before being brought to a shelter. Authorities search for the owners, who can then be charged with a misdemeanor. Owners who attempt to get their dog back may have to pay fines to do so.

Every owner with a dog should be aware of these laws. Some are there to protect the dog, while others protect people from a dog who may be unruly. Understanding each law and striving to abide by them will help each person be a better, more responsible dog owner.